The Rest and Resilience Fellowship 2025 in Germany offers a fully funded opportunity for two journalists to take a much-needed break, expand their horizons, and rejuvenate their passion for journalism. This fellowship is a joint initiative by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Taz Panter Foundation, organizations dedicated to defending press freedom and supporting independent journalism worldwide.
Since 2015, the Rest and Resilience Fellowship has annually invited two journalists from countries where press freedom is limited to spend six months in Berlin. During this time, fellows can tailor the program to their individual needs, whether they wish to withdraw from public life, engage in professional development, or network with international journalists. The fellowship provides insights into the work of RSF, a global human rights organization, and the taz Panter Foundation, which collaborates closely with the German newspaper Tageszeitung (taz).
The fully funded fellowship program for Journalists is not a structured daily routine but offers flexibility to accommodate each fellow’s personal and professional goals. Fellows can participate in workshops, visit media houses, and attend joint activities designed to enhance their skills and resilience. By the end of the six months, fellows return to their home countries re-energized, with new perspectives and tools to continue their vital journalistic work.
This fellowship not only offers a respite from difficult working conditions but also provides an enriching cultural experience in Berlin, a city known for its vibrant media landscape and commitment to press freedom. If you are a journalist seeking an opportunity to grow, reflect, and recharge, the Rest and Resilience Fellowship could be the perfect fit for you.
Quick Overview of Rest and Resilience Fellowship 2025
- Host Country: Germany
- Host Organizations: Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and Taz Panter Foundation
- Deadline: November 25, 2024, at 11:59 pm (CET)
- Fellowship Duration: May 1 – October 31, 2025 (6 months)
- Programs Include:
- Personalized fellowship tailored to individual needs
- Workshops and training sessions
- Visits to media houses
- Opportunities to network with international journalists
- Value:
- Fully funded (visa and travel costs, accommodation, health insurance, monthly grant)
- Age Limit: Not specified
- Eligibility:
- Journalists from countries with restricted freedom of the press
- Several years of professional journalistic experience
- Proficient in English
- Valid passport
Perks of the Reporters Without Borders Fellowship in Germany
- All expenses related to obtaining a visa and traveling to and from Germany are fully funded.
- Receive a monthly stipend of €1,000 to cover living expenses during your stay in Berlin.
- A furnished apartment is provided in Berlin, offering a comfortable living environment.
- Comprehensive travel health insurance for the entire six-month period.
- Participate in workshops on topics like digital safety, stress management, and other areas relevant to journalism.
- Connect with international journalists, media professionals, and organizations to expand your professional network.
- Gain insights into the German media landscape through visits to media houses and editorial offices.
- Access to individual psychosocial counseling if desired, to support your mental health and well-being.
- The fellowship can be tailored to your needs, whether you wish to withdraw from public life or actively engage in activities.
- Experience life in one of Europe’s most dynamic and culturally rich cities.
- Opportunity to take language classes to enhance your communication skills.
Benefits of Press Freedom Support Fellowship in Germany
- Enhance your journalistic skills through professional training and workshops.
- Learn new techniques and perspectives that can be applied in your work upon returning home.
- Build a global network of contacts that can lead to future collaborations and opportunities.
- Gain international exposure and insights into different media practices.
- Rejuvenate your passion for journalism by taking time to rest and reflect.
- Develop resilience and coping strategies to handle challenging working conditions.
- Return to your home country with renewed energy and fresh perspectives to continue your vital work.
- Share your experiences and knowledge with colleagues, contributing to the advancement of press freedom.
Eligibility Criteria of Media Rest and Resilience Fellowship by Reporters Without Borders
- Must be a professional journalist with several years of relevant work experience.
- Demonstrated commitment to journalism and media.
- Applicants must be from countries with restricted freedom of the press and information.
- Facing difficult working conditions or personal threats due to journalistic work.
- Must have a clear idea of how the fellowship will positively impact your current situation.
- Proficient in English, and able to communicate effectively in a professional context.
- Good health allowing for long-distance travel and a six-month stay abroad.
- Capable of handling daily life independently in a foreign setting.
- Possess a valid passport (valid for at least 12 months from the time of application or renewable independently).
- Eligible for a German visa and able to return to the home country after the fellowship.
- Willingness and ability to return to the country of origin after the fellowship period.
Note: Applicants unable to return home due to political or personal safety reasons cannot be considered, as German authorities require a return possibility for visa issuance.
Important Dates of RSF Journalism Fellowships in Berlin 2025
- Application Deadline: November 25, 2024, at 11:59 pm (CET)
- Notification of Results: Applicants will be informed of the selection outcome after the application review process.
- Fellowship Period: May 1 – October 31, 2025
- Visa Application Period: Successful applicants should plan to apply for their visa well in advance of the fellowship start date.
How to Apply to Rest and Resilience Fellowships 2025
- Prepare Your Application Documents:
- Completed Application Form: Fill out the online application form accurately.
- Passport Scan: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 12 months.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Provide a detailed CV outlining your professional experience.
- Letter of Motivation: Write a 1-2 page letter explaining why you are applying, detailing the challenges you face, and how the fellowship will benefit you.
- Visit the Application Form.
- Provide all required information, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
- Attach your CV, passport scan, and letter of motivation in PDF format.
- Review all entries before submitting.
- Apply to the fellowship by November 25, 2024, at 11:59 pm (CET).
- If unable to use the online form, contact the coordinators via email: fellowship-rsf-taz@proton.me.
- Use secure, encrypted email communication (e.g., ProtonMail).
Required Documents for Leadership Development Fellowship for Journalists
- Completed Online Application Form: Ensure all fields are filled out correctly.
- Valid Passport Scan: The passport must be valid for at least 12 months from the time of application or be independently renewable.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailed CV in tabular form, highlighting professional journalism experience.
- Letter of Motivation: 1-2 pages explaining:
- Reasons for applying to the fellowship.
- Specific factors endangering or complicating your work situation.
- How do you plan to spend your stay in Berlin?
- The anticipated positive impact on your future work in your home country.
Embark on a journey to renew your strength, expand your professional horizons, and continue your vital work in journalism with renewed vigor. Apply now!
For more information please visit the official Reporters Without Borders (RSF) website.
